What are the risks of other IBD medicines?

It’s important to remember that the other IBD medicines—like steroids, aminosalicylates, and immunomodulators—can also cause serious side effects. The tables below list examples of both common and rare side effects for the other IBD therapies.

Steroids

Side effects

  • Bruising easily
  • Cataracts
  • High blood pressure
  • Increase in blood sugar
  • Infections
  • Mood changes
  • Weak bones
  • Weight gain

Rare side effects

  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma
  • Muscle weakness
  • Severe hip damage
Aminosalicylates

Side effects

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Rash

Rare side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Intolerance syndrome (worsening of colitis symptoms)
  • Kidney injury
Immunomodulators

Side effects

  • Malaise
  • Nausea
  • Skin rash

Rare side effects

  • Inflammation of the pancreas
  • Liver damage
  • Low white blood cell counts
  • Lymphoma
  • Serious infections